Zoetis Secures Conditional License for Bird Flu Vaccine

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has granted Zoetis a conditional license for its H5N2 avian influenza vaccine designed for chickens, a significant step in combating the highly pathogenic bird flu that has impacted over 150 million birds in the U.S. since February 2022. This vaccine, which was developed in response to a new strain identified in 2022, reflects Zoetis's long-standing commitment to advancing animal health solutions. While the vaccine demonstrates safety and efficacy, its commercial availability is currently undecided, and the decision to vaccinate will rest with national regulatory authorities in partnership with the poultry industry. Experts emphasize that vaccination is a more effective method to control outbreaks than culling, which has been the primary response in the U.S. previously. The approval marks a critical shift in the approach to managing avian influenza, potentially offering a tool for farmers to mitigate economic losses associated with the virus. As the vaccination strategy unfolds, it is seen as a hopeful development for the poultry industry and animal health professionals alike.